Political Party:
Democrat
Ballot Designation:
California State Assemblymember
Law Enforcement Contributions:
Background:
Assemblymember Patel was elected to the Legislature in 2024. Prior to her election, she served as a Trustee on the Poway Unified School District Board of Trustees, as President of the San Diego County School Boards Association, and as a member of the San Diego Police Department Northeastern Division Captain’s Advisory Board.
In her first term in office, Assemblymember Patel had a good voting record on justice reform, earning a “B” on our Legislative Scorecard. While she supported most of the good bills that we highlighted this year, she however failed to support AB 1231, which would have greatly expanded court diversion opportunities in CA.
Public Safety Platform:
Assemblymember Patel does not list her public safety views on her campaign website. However, given her somewhat good voting record, IJ Action recommends voting for Assemblymember Patel as the Harm Reduction candidate.
Website:
Political Party:
Republican
Ballot Designation:
College Administration Support
Law Enforcement Contributions:
None as of 09/21/2026
Background:
Carrie Espinoza Villanueva describes herself as a businesswoman and educator. She is currently employed at Palomar College in the Trades Department.
Public Safety Platform:
On her campaign website, Villanueva expresses her support for criminalization measures, stating that if elected, she would work to “fully fund Prop 36 and ensure that law enforcement receives the support it needs in order to keep our communities safe and keep criminals off of our streets!”
Website:
